Apply for Signs
Business signs direct attention to a commodity, service, business, or profession which is conducted or offered on the same lot.
Before you Start
Please review the Permit Requirements below as these vary from project to project.
Ready to get started? First, make sure you are registered and activated at our Online Permit Center. For instructions, please visit our Planning & Building Video Tutorials webpage.
What to Do
Permit Requirements
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Business signage installation typically requires a Zoning Permit, but may only require Zoning review for most refaces (please note that dark lettering on light backgrounds is discouraged).
The sign chapter of the Planning Code is accessible online under OMC 17.104. Please be sure to review the Commercial Design Review Guidelines for commercial signage.
To determine your zone and to measure your parcel frontage to determine maximum signage per property, view the City's online Zoning Map. 20 sq ft per tenant is automatically allowed as a minimum; includes all commercial tenants.
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- Contractors who are licensed by the State of California with a classification appropriate for the work that will be performed and have a current Business Tax Certificate.
- Owners of a building or their legal representative.
How to Apply
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Step One: Design Review
Please be sure to review the Commercial Design Review Guidelines for signage.
- Submit a Zoning Worksheet through our Online Permit Center*
* NOTE: You will be taken to our login page first before you can submit a Zoning Worksheet - In the Worksheet, upload your completed Basic Application for Development Review, Building Permit Application, including a description of work to be performed and all associated plans and documents
- A planner will review your submission
- Please note that public notice of your project will be required
- Once approved, you will receive a decision letter from the Bureau of Planning and your application will be routed to the Building Permit Counter if applicable
- Submit a Zoning Worksheet through our Online Permit Center*
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Step Two: Building Permit (All Signs EXCEPT Re-facings)
- Once advised by Building Counter staff, please upload all associated Building Permit documents to your ZW
- For illuminated signs, you must also apply online for an Electrical Permit
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Step Three: Application Review
Once we receive your application, staff will review your documents for completeness. If further information is needed, a planner will contact you at the email address provided. For the latest processing estimates, please see our Average Permit Processing Turnaround Times webpage.
Need to Know
QUESTIONS?
Call (510) 238-3911 or find quick answers through our Permit & Services Questions Portal. You may also schedule an appointment with Permit Counter staff during open hours.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
- City of Oakland Municipal Code - Title 17 Planning
- City of Oakland Interactive Zoning Map
- Building Permits
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